Thu Jun 12 15:23:11 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article version:

**Summary:**

In the lead-up to the Nilambur Assembly byelection in Kerala, India, UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath is utilizing a street play titled “Selfie” to counter the LDF’s backing from prominent cultural figures. The play, created by Congress’s Samskara Sahiti, satirizes the LDF government’s alleged failures, particularly focusing on Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas. It highlights issues like infrastructure collapse, poor road conditions, healthcare problems, rising prices, and the concerns of ASHA workers. The play, which aims to resonate with the masses, has been inaugurated by UDF leaders and features a cast and crew of artists.

**News Article:**

**UDF Uses Street Theatre to Target LDF Ahead of Nilambur By-Election**

**MALAPPURAM, INDIA – JUNE 12, 2025** – With the Nilambur Assembly byelection looming, the United Democratic Front (UDF) is deploying a unique campaign tactic: street theatre. UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath is leveraging the accessibility of street plays to challenge the Left Democratic Front (LDF), which enjoys support from well-known writers and artists.

The play, titled “Selfie,” directly targets the alleged failures of the incumbent LDF government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Produced under the banner of the Congress’s Samskara Sahiti, the satirical performance is being staged throughout the constituency.

“The goal is to create lasting impressions,” stated playwright Boban Mattumantha. “By using comedy, the play creates a lasting impression that resonates deeply with viewers.”

The play is particularly critical of Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, portraying him as someone who takes credit for successes while avoiding blame for problems. “Selfie” addresses pressing concerns such as the recent collapse of National Highway 66, poor road conditions, issues within the healthcare system, rising costs of living, high electricity bills, and the challenges faced by ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers.

The play was inaugurated on Wednesday by UDF chairman and Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan, along with other prominent UDF figures. Directed by C.K. Haridas, “Selfie” features a cast of actors and musicians and a script by Boban Mattumantha, and with musical background created by Sajit Shankar. The UDF hopes that this grassroots approach will resonate with voters and challenge the LDF’s dominance in the region.

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